Disappearing into a romance novel lets readers escape to another world, if only momentarily. Whether it’s a glamorous New York apartment, tropical paradise or secluded mountain lodge, your novel’s setting is a strong hook for readers that can function almost like another character in the story and on its cover.
This month we asked Harlequin authors how they chose the setting for their latest releases and how important it is to their stories.
The Tycoon’s Diamond Demand by Joss Wood
“Since leaving Norway twelve years ago, shortly after she turned 18, Maya has had a complicated relationship with Norway. For Maya, the daughter of one of Europe’s wealthiest men, Norway comprises two worlds; the cold, loveless and wealthy world she inhabited with her father, and the freedom of the few months she spent with Jens, on his fishing trawler and in the town of Lofoten. When Maya returns to Norway, she not only reignites her love for Jens, her father’s alpha, billionaire rival, but she also rediscovers her love for Norway, its people, and its incredible natural beauty.”—Joss Wood
It Started with a Secret by Tif Marcelo
“It’s been my hope for a long time to set a book and series in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Picturesque and inspiring, it is almost magical for its lush landscape. Driving along Skyline Drive in scenic Shenandoah National Park, I remember marveling at the overlooks and wondering about the people living in the small towns nestled in the foliage. Towns that were probably glazed over by onlookers. Through the use of this setting, I wanted to present a town that couldn’t be glazed over, a diverse town, with characters who had triumphs and challenges that were universal and important.”—Tif Marcelo
The Flaw in His Rio Revenge by Lucy King
“In the previous book in the series, A CHRISTMAS CONSEQUENCE FOR THE GREEK, Santi is revealed to be Brazilian, so it felt logical to set this story in Brazil. Because he grew up in a favela in Rio, he craves green spaces and nature. He lives in a treehouse on the coast and can often be found at the Iguazu Falls or whale watching, all of which feature in the book. He believes that exacting his revenge on Thalia on his territory will put him in control – a belief she challenges every step of the way!”—Lucy King
A High-Stakes Reunion by Tara Taylor Quinn
“I didn’t choose the location of this book – it chose me. I live in the valley surrounded by these mountains. In order to leave (unless by air) I have to drive through them. For hours. I look out into the vast ruggedness and a story comes to me. And when I hike the mountains, people appear in my mind. I know how it feels to be out there. I know the remoteness. I know the very real dangers. The setting is important because it’s one of the story’s characters. One that protects. Provides. And holds a universe of love.”—Tara Taylor Quinn
Defender After Dark by Charlene Parris
“Mark Hawthorne works with Adam Solberg (a character from my first novel, WATCHERS OF THE NIGHT) for the York Regional Police, so staying within the northern section of Toronto, Canada is critical to the story. During his current investigation, Mark travels to different neighborhoods around the city seeking answers to his questions, which allowed me to highlight some of Toronto’s diverse cultural environments. When I read a story that describes a neighborhood and its residents, I feel like I’m actually there.”—Charlene Parris
A Cape Cod Summer by Jo McNally
“A CAPE COD SUMMER is set on—you guessed it—Cape Cod. It’s my first book set in the small town of Winsome Cove. I like writing about small towns, but a coastal town has a different vibe than a country setting. Pardon the pun, but the locals tend to be a bit saltier in old fishing towns, plus there’s also the tourist attraction aspect. It’s a fun contrast in characters, and provides a quirky background for Sam, a reclusive marina owner, and Lexi, a reluctant visiting chef, as these two damaged people find their way to healing and love.”—Jo McNally
Need more inspiration? Try these resources.
What About the “Where”?: 3 Editor Tips on Setting
Creating a Vivid Setting: Tips From Harlequin Heartwarming Author Beth Carpenter
